Northern Chile Tour/Excursion

We begin with pickup at 8:00 AM from your hotel in Arica. Our first destination is the Azapa Valley, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. In this valley, we will explore: the Azapa Geoglyphs, the San Miguel de Azapa Museum, and Parcela Gallo. Next, we will head to Presencias Tutelares, where you can appreciate sculptures and artifacts representing ancestral beliefs and deities. Then, we will go to Cuyas to enjoy a delicious lunch. This picturesque spot offers an excellent opportunity to taste local dishes and relax before continuing the excursion. Afterward, we will visit Caleta Camarones, a site of great cultural significance. Here, we will explore the Chinchorro Culture, famous for its ancient mummified remains and unique contributions to archaeology. The day ends in Codpa, where we will stay at a cozy local lodge. You’ll enjoy a traditional dinner and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for resting and reflecting on the day’s experiences.

At 8:00 AM, we continue our journey with our first stop at the Casa Museo de la Familia Sosa, a site rich in history and tradition. This house museum offers a fascinating insight into the life and customs of the Sosa family, who have made significant contributions to the local culture. Through its exhibits, you will discover artifacts, photographs, and objects that tell the story of this family and their impact on the region. Next, we will head to the Ofragia Petroglyphs, a remarkable archaeological site that houses ancient rock carvings. These petroglyphs provide a window into the cultural practices and artistic expression of the ancient civilizations that once inhabited the area. Our tour continues to Timar, an area of historical and cultural significance. In Timar, we will explore the local landscape and learn more about the area's history, further enriching the cultural and archaeological experience of the tour.

Accompanied by a local guide, we will explore the fascinating archaeological sites of Caragua. Our guide will share detailed knowledge about the history and culture of the region. We will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Caragua, where you can savor typical regional dishes in a cozy setting. Next, we will continue our journey to Ticnamar, a place of great cultural and historical interest, and Belén, known for its heritage and local traditions. Here, we will explore the Church of Pachama, an architectural gem that reflects the religious history of the area. Our next stop will be the Queñua Forest, a unique ecosystem that is home to these majestic trees characteristic of the region. We will head to Zapahuira to enjoy lunch in a picturesque setting, where you can taste more local dishes while appreciating the surrounding landscape. After lunch, we will visit Tambo Zapahuira, an ancient structure that was part of the Incan trade routes. Then, we will embark on the Inca Trail – Section 1, a segment of the famous path that offers spectacular views and a rich experience of Incan heritage. Our tour will take us to the Socoroma Lookout, where we will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Andean landscape — an ideal spot for memorable photographs. We will return to town for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try more regional specialties. Afterwards, we will stay at a local lodge that offers comfort and a cozy atmosphere to rest after a day full of exploration.

The mid-mountain trek will take you from Socoroma to the picturesque town of Putre. Along this route, you will cross the impressive Inca Trail – Section 2, a less-traveled but equally stunning part of this historic path. Throughout the journey, you will enjoy panoramic views, varied terrain, and an immersive nature experience. Depending on the progress of the trek, you may have lunch on the trail at a scenic spot that allows you to recharge while appreciating the natural surroundings. Upon arrival in Putre, you will head to a local restaurant where you can enjoy a traditional dinner reflecting the authentic flavors of the Andean region. Finally, you will go to a hotel in Putre for the night. The accommodation offers comfort and tranquility, providing the perfect setting to rest and recover after the trek.

Our day begins with pickup and transfer to Lake Chungara at 8:00 AM, an impressive high-altitude lake offering panoramic views of Parinacota Volcano and the surrounding mountainous landscape. We continue our exploration at the Cotacotani Lagoons, a series of interconnected lakes showcasing a variety of vibrant colors set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Our next stop is the charming town of Parinacota. Here, we will visit the Parinacota Church, an important historic site with traditional architecture that reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage. Next, we head to the Chucuyo Flamingo Lagoon, a beautiful body of water that is home to various bird species, including flamingos. We will enjoy lunch en route at a local restaurant, where you can savor delicious regional dishes in a cozy and picturesque setting. After lunch, we will visit the archaeological site of Chacu, an important historic location that provides deep insight into the ancient cultural practices and life of pre-Incan civilizations. Then, we will embark on a hike along the Las Cuevas Trail, a route passing through rock formations and natural caves. We will return to Putre for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can taste more regional specialties in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Finally, you will stay overnight at a hotel in Putre, which offers comfort and a relaxing environment to rest after a day full of discoveries.

The day begins with pickup and transfer to Suriplaza, the starting point for an exciting high-altitude trekking adventure. Embark on a high-mountain trek through Suriplaza, where you will follow trails offering panoramic views of the Andean landscapes. This challenging trek is designed for those with good physical condition and trekking experience, as you will ascend to significant altitudes and traverse varied terrain. At the end of the trek, you will return to Putre, where you will stay at a local hotel. This accommodation provides a comfortable and welcoming refuge, ideal for relaxing and recovering after the demanding hike. To end the day on a high note, you will head to a local restaurant in Putre, where you can enjoy a dinner highlighting the traditional flavors of the Andean region.

We begin the day with a transfer to the commune of General Lagos to enjoy the Feria Tripartita, a vibrant local market where communities from different areas gather to exchange products, crafts, and traditions. Our next stop is the Caquena Bofedal, a beautiful high-Andean wetland known for its rich biodiversity and tranquil landscapes. We will continue to the Caciri and El Toro Lagoons, two impressive bodies of water situated in a mountainous setting. Next, we will head to the Jurasi Hot Springs, a perfect place to relax and enjoy the therapeutic properties of its mineral-rich waters. Immerse yourself in the warm, mineralized waters of the springs, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Then, we will return to Putre, a picturesque town located in the Andean high plateau. In Putre, you will stay at a local hotel where you can enjoy a comfortable and cozy stay. This accommodation offers an ideal place to rest and recharge after a day of exploration. The day will conclude with dinner at a local restaurant in Putre, where you can savor typical dishes from the Andean region in a warm and authentic atmosphere.

We begin the day with a transfer to the Misitune Bofedal, a beautiful wetland in the Andean high plateau. This biodiversity-rich ecosystem is ideal for birdwatching and enjoying a serene natural environment. We continue our route to the Río Lauca area, where we will explore the riverside landscape and its surroundings. The Lauca River is known for its scenic beauty and ecological importance in the region. Our next destination is the Diablo Marka Lookout, where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Andean landscape. This viewpoint offers a unique perspective of the natural surroundings and is an excellent spot for photography. Then, we will head to the Surire Salt Flat, a vast salt flat that stretches to the horizon. This dazzling saline landscape is home to various species of flamingos and other birds. Next, we will visit the Chinchillani Flamingo Lookout, where you can observe flamingos in their natural habitat and enjoy panoramic views of the salt flat and surrounding area. We will continue to Chilcaya, a small settlement with authentic rural charm. This is a perfect place to immerse yourself in local culture and experience life on the high plateau. Afterward, we will head to the Polloquere Hot Springs, known for their relaxing thermal waters and impressive natural setting. We will conclude the tour at Isluga National Park, a protected area encompassing diverse landscapes, from wetlands to mountains. We will arrive in Nama, where you will stay at a rural guesthouse that offers a comfortable and authentic stay in the heart of the Andean high plateau. The day will end with dinner in a traditional home, where you can enjoy typical dishes prepared with local ingredients in a warm and family-friendly atmosphere.

We begin the day with a transfer to the impressive Parinacota Colored Lagoon, famous for its vibrant hues that change with the light throughout the day. Our next stop is Enquelga, a picturesque village that reflects traditional life on the high plateau. We continue to Isluga, a small town with rustic charm and stunning natural surroundings. We will explore the area and enjoy the peaceful landscape. Next, we head to the Coipasa Salt Flat, an extensive salt flat offering surreal landscapes and excellent photography opportunities. Then, we will explore the Giant Cactus Forest, a fascinating landscape home to large cacti. These majestic cacti rising in the desert create a unique and picturesque environment. At the end of the day, we will arrive in Cariquima or Colchane, where you will stay at a local guesthouse. The day will conclude with dinner at the guesthouse, where you can enjoy traditional dishes prepared with local ingredients in a warm and family-friendly atmosphere.

We begin the day with an exciting transfer to the Petrified Waterfall, an impressive geological phenomenon where water has sculpted unique rock formations that appear petrified. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to explore and marvel at the rock formations, as well as take photos and enjoy the natural surroundings around the waterfall. We will continue our journey along a section of the Inca Trail, an ancient route connecting important sites of the Inca civilization. We’ll walk a historic segment of the trail, enjoying panoramic views and the opportunity to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the region’s ancient inhabitants. At the end of the day, we will head to a rural lodge where you can relax in an authentic and welcoming atmosphere. The day will conclude with a traditional dinner at the lodge, where you can savor typical dishes prepared with local ingredients. You’ll enjoy a homemade meal in a warm and family-friendly setting, ending the day with an authentic culinary experience.

At the end of the tour, we will proceed with passenger drop-off at the designated location (airport or hotel). This will be the moment to say goodbye and ensure that all participants have enjoyed a memorable and enriching experience.